Obstructive sleep apnea and stroke. (April 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Das, Aneesa M; Khan, Meena
• Is Part Of: Expert review of cardiovascular therapy. Volume 10:Number 4(2012)
• Page Start: 525
• Page End: 535
• Publication Date: 2012-04
• Subjects: continuous positive airway pressure -- obstructive sleep apnea -- sleep disordered breathing -- stroke; Cardiovascular agents -- Research -- Periodicals; 616.12061
• DOI: 10.1586/erc.12.25
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-9072

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder that has been associated with many cardiovascular disease processes, including hypertension and arrhythmias. OSA has also been identified as an independent risk factor for stroke and all-cause mortality. OSA is highly prevalent in patients with transient ischemic attacks and stroke. Routinely screening patients with transient ischemic attacks or stroke for sleep apnea is becoming more common. In stroke patients with OSA, treatment with continuous positive airway pressure may prevent subsequent cardiovascular events and improve neurologic outcomes. This review explores the pathophysiology of the association between OSA and stroke, and the clinical implications of identification and treatment of OSA in patients with stroke.